The Sentinel reports that Chris Birchall has criticised the club’s “loyalty” despite agreeing a new deal with the club.

Birchall is understood to have accepted a reduced deal despite better offers elsewhere. Birchall and his family are settled in the area and reluctant to move.

This is my club, but I don’t feel I have been looked after or treated in the best way…

He told the newspaper: “I have accepted the offer and always said I wanted to stay. I have had a lot better offers elsewhere, but I don’t want to move away.

“This is my club, but I don’t feel I have been looked after or treated in the best way.

“I feel like I have shown the club loyalty over the years. I have been associated with the club from a young age. From that aspect I don’t think it’s right that I have been offered the contract I have.”